What they are really telling you is they don't want your business... so take it elsewhere.

Exactly this. I took my business elsewhere on many occasions after getting disappointed at CT. Now I hardly ever bother going unless I'm sure they have the best deal. I just order from amazon and go to Best Buy (they price match easily with anybody) instead if I really need it like now.

As sad as it could be, I wouldn't be surprised if CT goes the way of the Sears in the near future. Turning away customers for a couple of dollars doesn't seem like good business to me.